Visually impaired student nurse....

[txels9]

Okay, I don't technically see myself visually impaired, but I'm sure people would say that because I have an eye condition called nystagmus. I've had it my whole life and it's never gave me any problems. I can decrease the movement of my eyes by turning my head.

Anyways, I am currently a student nurse and it's been challenging but really rewarding. But I feel really alone in the profession because of my condition. I don't know if anyone out there has a visual impairment or a disability and is a nurse, but please reach out. ?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Oh yeah, I have strabismus (crossed eyes) as well as some nystagmus. I've been a nurse for 27 years and really don't have issues. Patients never comment on it as all they usually care about is that I provide care. I don't think I'd worry about.

As a student you are stressed enough - just come up with some kind of off hand but short comment if you are asked about it.

I just say, "oh I've had it from birth - no issues" and go on with what I'm doing.
Good luck in school

[txels9]

9 hours ago, traumaRUs said:

Oh yeah, I have strabismus (crossed eyes) as well as some nystagmus. I've been a nurse for 27 years and really don't have issues. Patients never comment on it as all they usually care about is that I provide care. I don't think I'd worry about.

As a student you are stressed enough - just come up with some kind of off hand but short comment if you are asked about it.

I just say, "oh I've had it from birth - no issues" and go on with what I'm doing.
Good luck in school

Wow, thank you! It's great to hear from other people who have this condition.

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Moved to nurses with disabilities forum for other answers

[Persephone Paige, ADN]

I knew a nurse who had very limited eyesight. Her mom contracted Toxoplasmosis when she was pregnant with her. She went to Nursing School and the ADA provided equipment for her so she could do case management.